At a glance

Producer

Ovum Wines

Region

Yakima Valley, Washington, USA

Grape variety

Grenache

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$40-$55

Tasting profile

Ripe red and black cherries, pepper, slate minerality, subtle earthy notes, with a medium-plus body and smooth texture.

Evolution: Fruit concentration will deepen, tannins will soften, and complexity including spicy and savory layers will develop.

At peak: Rich, balanced fruit with integrated tannins and elegant minerality.

Structure

Acidity

Medium

Tannins

Medium to firm

Alcohol

Approximately 14.5%

Aging potential

12-15 years from vintage with proper cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2033

Optimal window

2026 to 2035

Current status

Approaching maturity, drink now to 2035

Current condition

Youthful with vibrant fruit but structured tannins

The Big Salt is a Grenache from a cool climate Washington AVA, the 2023 vintage is youthful with firm tannins suggesting a peak drinking window starting a few years post-release. The wine’s structure supports moderate aging to develop complexity without losing vibrancy.

Food pairing

Grilled lamb, roasted Mediterranean vegetables, herb-crusted pork, aged Manchego cheese, dishes with spice and earthiness.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-60 minutes) — To aerate and soften tannins, enhance aromatic complexity.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Focus on dry farming, water conservation, minimal intervention winemaking, use of solar energy at winery

Ovum Wines employs sustainable viticultural methods focused on reduced water use and energy-efficient operations but lacks formal organic or biodynamic certification. The carbon footprint is moderate due to domestic distribution and careful packaging choices, reflecting a good sustainability commitment for a boutique producer.